Choosing the Best Credit Card for a 620 Score

Credit score representation and its implications

Intro

Navigating the world of credit can feel like walking through a maze, especially when your score hovers around 620. This number might not be the end of the line, but it certainly does place limitations on the types of credit cards you can access. Many people believe that a low score is akin to a scarlet letter in the financial realm, but it shouldn't deter you from finding a card that fits your needs. In fact, understanding the mortgage of credit options can open new doors, offering pathways to rebuilding your score.

With the right credit card, you can not only start improving your credit history but also enjoy a range of benefits tailored to your financial habits. So, let’s get down to brass tacks and delve into what you need to consider when hunting for the right credit card that will match your 620 credit score.

Key Concepts

Understanding Credit Scores

Credit scores represent your creditworthiness, calculated using various personal financial data. A score of 620 generally falls into the "fair" category on the credit score spectrum. It signals to lenders that while you're not a prime candidate for the best offers, there is potential for growth with responsible credit use.

Types of Credit Cards Available

For someone with a 620 credit score, the options often include:

Secured Credit Cards: These require a cash deposit, which acts as collateral. They can be a safe bet for rebuilding credit.
Store Credit Cards: Retailers often offer cards with lower credit score requirements, but beware of high interest rates.
Subprime Credit Cards: These are designed for those with lower scores but can come with hefty fees and steep interest rates.

Importance of Financial Literacy

Understanding the nuances of credit cards - from interest rates to fees - can be the difference between financial stability and a mountain of debt. Recognizing what APR means or understanding the impact of a late payment can save you both money and heartache in the long run.

Expert Insights

Tips for Selecting Your Card

Compare Interest Rates: Don’t just go for the first offer you see; shops around. A few percentage points here and there can lead to considerable savings.
Review Fees: Annual fees, late payment fees, and foreign transaction fees are all factors to weigh. The lower, the better.
Consider Rewards Programs: Look for options that cater to your spending habits; a good rewards program can offer cashback or discounts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the Fine Print: Terms and conditions often have hidden traps. Reading through everything can save you a headache later.
Rushing Your Decision: Take your time to assess your needs and how a card fits them. No need to jump in without knowing what you're getting yourself into.
Not Monitoring Your Credit Utilization: Keeping your utilization rate low is pivotal. Aim to use less than 30% of your credit limit to maintain or improve your score.

By taking a measured approach to selecting a credit card, individuals with a 620 score lay down the foundation for future financial health.

Securing a credit card isn't merely about accessing funds; it's about leveraging opportunities to bolster your credit score effectively. As you dive deeper into the nuances laid out in this article, you'll find that wisdom and strategy can go a long way in improving not just your score, but your overall financial landscape.

Understanding Credit Scores

Grasping how credit scores function is vital, particularly when seeking the right credit card for a score of 620. A solid understanding allows individuals to navigate the financial landscape more effectively and make informed decisions. It sets the stage for not just approval, but also optimal card selection that aligns with one’s financial needs.

What is a Credit Score?

A credit score is a numerical representation of an individual's creditworthiness. It typically ranges from 300 to 850, where higher scores signify greater reliability in repaying debts. For lenders, this score is a quick snapshot of risk—essentially, it indicates how likely someone is to pay back borrowed money. A score of 620 falls into the fair category, meaning lenders see potential risk but may still offer credit options.

These scores are influenced by several factors: payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, types of credit in use, and new credit inquiries. Understanding these elements can help individuals manage their scores better and make more informed choices, ultimately steering them towards the best possible credit card options.

How Credit Scores are Computed

The computation of credit scores blends multiple factors, each carrying different weights:

Payment History (35%): This is the most critical aspect. Paying bills on time boosts the score, while late payments can cause considerable damage.
Amounts Owed (30%): This focuses on how much debt is present relative to credit limits. The lower the utilization ratio, the better it looks on a credit report.
Length of Credit History (15%): A longer history often equates to a better score, as it gives lenders insight into borrowing behavior over time.
Types of Credit in Use (10%): A mix of credit types (installment loans, credit cards) can benefit the score.
New Credit Inquiries (10%): Each request for a new line of credit can pull down the score slightly, especially if there are several inquiries in a short time.

It's a tightrope walk, and understanding the nuances in these categories can empower individuals to improve their scores, leading to better credit card options.

The Significance of a Credit Score

A credit score of 620 is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it indicates some risk to potential lenders; on the other hand, it's not the end of the line. With a score in this range, you’re considered a fair credit risk. This means that while options may be limited compared to those with higher scores, there are still avenues for obtaining credit.

Having a score of 620 often means:

Higher Interest Rates: Individuals may face less favorable interest rates than those with excellent credit.
Limited Options: There are fewer credit card offers available, mostly consisting of secured or higher-fee unsecured cards.
Potential for Growth: It can also be viewed as a stepping stone. By managing new credit responsibly, one can improve this score over time.

Understanding the implications of a 620 credit score is key. It provides context for the types of credit cards available, as well as the strategies needed to elevate that score.

"Credit scores are not just numbers; they reflect a financial story—a narrative that can be rewritten."

By recognizing the importance of this foundational knowledge, individuals can better navigate their credit journey, paving the way toward improved financial standing.

Types of Credit Cards Available

When navigating the maze of credit options, understanding the variety of credit cards available is crucial, especially for those holding a 620 credit score. Knowing your options can be the difference betwen financial stability and unnecessary debt. With so many choices, pinpointing what works best for your unique situation becomes essential. Whether you are looking to build your credit score further or just need a convenient payment method, the right type of card can provide benefits beyond merely increasing your purchasing power.

Secured Credit Cards

Secured Credit Cards are often the first step for individuals at a 620 score. Essentially, these cards require a cash deposit that serves as your credit limit. This upfront capital reduces the risk for the lender, making it easier to obtain approval even with a less-than-stellar credit profile.

Overview of credit card types available for lower scores

The good news? Using a secured card responsibly can significantly help in rebuilding your score. Here are benefits to consider:

Build Credit: Payments do get reported to the major credit bureaus.
Manageable Limits: Since your limit equals your deposit, it's easier to avoid overspending.
Transition to Unsecured: Many secured cards offer a pathway to upgrade to unsecured credit cards after a year of good standing.

However, it's important to keep an eye on the fees associated. Some cards can carry high annual fees, and you’ll want to make sure your choice doesn’t negate your efforts to improve your credit score.

Unsecured Credit Cards for Fair Credit

Unsecured Credit Cards aimed at individuals with fair credit, like those with a 620 score, offer an interesting balance. They usually don't require a deposit but come with higher interest rates and less favorable terms compared to cards for those with excellent credit. When considering these, here's what to keep in mind:

Interest Rates: Expect higher APRs, so it’s wise to pay off the balance in full each month to avoid accruing interest.
Rewards Programs: Some cards in this category offer rewards, such as cashback or points per dollar spent. These can add value if you pay off balances regularly.
Added Benefits: Look out for features such as purchase protection or travel insurance that could be advantageous.

Even if the options are limited, an unsecured card can aid in maintaining or boosting your credit standing if used cautiously and strategically.

Student Credit Cards

For younger individuals or those just starting their financial journeys, Student Credit Cards serve as an appropriate entry point. Generally designed for students, these cards come with lower credit limits and lenient qualification criteria, making them accessible to new credit users. Hot points worth noting are:

Education on Credit: Many issuers offer educational resources, which are beneficial for first-time credit users.
Rewards on Essentials: Some student cards provide rewards for purchases on everyday items, like groceries or textbooks, which can be handy for college expenses.
Opportunities to Upgrade: Successfully managing a student card can lead to a transition to greater credit offerings after graduation.

While student cards are a splendid start, they also carry the weight of responsibility. Develop habits that will serve well into adulthood, as credit behavior learned during these early years can stick, protecting or harming your long-term financial trajectory.

Understanding the types of available credit cards allows you to make informed choices. No matter which option appeals to you, keeping an eye on your credit management will ultimately contribute to a healthier financial future.

Interest Rates and Fees

When it comes to credit cards, interest rates and fees play an undeniable role in shaping an individual's financial landscape, especially for those with a 620 credit score. With access to credit frequently hinging on how well someone can manage these costs, understanding what they entail becomes crucial. It impacts not only the algorithms that approve or deny credit applications but also how much a user pays over time. By dissecting the details surrounding interest rates and various fees, we allow readers to glean insights that can save them from unwittingly falling into a financial quagmire.

Understanding APR

Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is often bandied about like a catchphrase in credit card advertisements. It indicates the yearly cost of borrowing funds, expressed as a percentage. For borrowers with a 620 credit score, the APR can range widely, from moderately competitive to outright exorbitant.

Key Characteristic: The APR reflects both the interest rate and any associated fees, meaning it’s a holistic snapshot of the cost of a card.
Importance for Borrowers: A high APR can escalate costs quickly if balances aren’t cleared. For instance, if someone carries a balance of $1,000 at an APR of 25%, they could pay $250 in interest over a year simply for keeping that debt.

Common Fees Associated with Credit Cards

When searching for the right credit card, it’s not just about the interest. Various fees can sneak up, adding to the overall expense. It’s vital to familiarize oneself with these fees to make informed decisions.

Annual Fees

The annual fee is a charge that some credit cards impose just for holding the account. Not every card has this fee, but it’s important to consider.

Contribution to Overarching Topic: Annual fees can significantly affect how beneficial a credit card is over time.
Key Characteristic: They usually range from $0 to several hundred dollars depending on the card’s features and perks.
Unique Features: While some view these as a deterrent, annual fees can point toward cards that offer robust rewards and bonuses. For instance, a card with a $95 fee might provide travel rewards that are more significant than $95 when used strategically. However, for someone not keen on paying upfront costs, cards with no annual fee might be a more suitable choice, despite offering fewer perks.

Late Payment Fees

Late payment fees are a sticking point that can cause frustration. These charges are assessed when a payment doesn’t reach the creditor by the due date.

Contribution to Overarching Topic: Such fees can dramatically spike expenses, particularly for borrowers trying to regain control over their credit.
Key Characteristic: Late fees typically are imposed on a sliding scale, often starting around $25, and increasing for repeat offenses.
Unique Features: While a $35 late fee might not seem catastrophic at first glance, it could lead to impaired creditworthiness, thus exacerbating the issues faced by someone with a 620 credit score. In essence, one late payment can create a ripple effect, trapping borrowers into a cycle of debt and missed opportunities.

Foreign Transaction Fees

Foreign transaction fees are charged for purchases made outside the cardholder's home country. These are often overlooked but can accumulate quickly during international trips.

Contribution to Overarching Topic: For those who travel frequently or make online purchases from foreign vendors, these fees can detrimentally impact overall spending.
Key Characteristic: Generally, these fees range from 1% to 3% of the purchase amount.
Unique Features: A credit card without foreign transaction fees might be a wise choice for avid travelers. It’s essential to weigh the potential costs before embarking on a journey abroad, as a few moments of thought can ultimately save a traveler a handsome sum.

Credit Card Rewards Programs

In the realm of credit cards, rewards programs can be a game changer, especially for those with a 620 credit score. These programs offer incentives that can help you get more value out of your spending. Instead of just looking at interest rates and fees, rewarding your daily purchases can lead to savings and benefits that make a difference.

Types of Rewards Programs

Cashback Rewards

Cashback rewards are one of the most straightforward types of rewards you can find. The basic premise is simple: for every dollar spent, a percentage is returned to you as cash. This aspect makes cashback rewards easy to understand and immensely practical. For individuals with a 620 credit score, this can be an appealing choice because it allows you to get something back from the money you spend on essentials like groceries, gas, or bills.

The standout feature of cashback programs is their versatility. Unlike points or miles that might expire or be tied to specific uses, the cash rewards can be directly applied to your credit card balance, used for future purchases, or even withdrawn as cash. However, one should be aware of specific limitations, such as minimum spending requirements to qualify for certain cashback percentages.

Travel Rewards

Travel rewards cards can transport you beyond the basics of credit usage. They usually offer points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or other travel-related expenses. For a person with a 620 credit score, these cards could seem enticing, especially if travel is a significant part of their lifestyle.

The key strength of travel rewards is their potential value; a single point can sometimes lead to significant travel savings. However, these rewards often come with limitations like blackout dates or capacity controls, which can be a bummer for someone looking to utilize rewards frequently. A wise user should weigh if their travel habits align with these conditions.

Point Systems

Graph showing interest rates comparison for credit cards

Point systems represent another rewarding approach. Here, every purchase earns points that accumulate over time. Like travel rewards, these points can be redeemed for various products, often through a dedicated portal. For those maintaining a 620 credit score, a point system can feel more rewarding if they frequently shop within specific retail partners.

The unique feature of point systems lies in their flexibility: sometimes, you can accumulate points faster with specific purchases or promotional offers. However, converting points to actual rewards can be complex, with numerous rules governing their redeemability. This complexity could prove challenging for someone who simply wants to maximize their credit usage without diving into a sea of guidelines.

Choosing the Right Rewards Program

When considering rewards programs, it is crucial to evaluate your spending habits. Are you a regular customer at certain stores? Do you travel often? Depending on your lifestyle and preferences, choosing a cashback, travel, or point system can lead to significant benefits.

Choosing a rewards program isn’t just about the bonus offers; it’s about finding one that fits your lifestyle and makes your credit card work for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Card

Choosing the right credit card can feel like navigating a labyrinth, especially for someone with a credit score of 620. It’s not just about finding a card that accepts your score; there are multiple facets to weigh, each playing a crucial role in financial health and future credit endeavors. Some individuals may rush through this process, only to find themselves dealing with cards that don’t fit their needs well.

Your Spending Habits and Lifestyle

When selecting a credit card, think about how you spend your money. Are you a frequent traveler, or do you often dine out? Do you purchase big-ticket items or stick to smaller everyday expenses? Understanding your spending habits allows you to target the card that maximizes your rewards and benefits.

For instance, if you often find yourself on the go, opting for a card with travel rewards might be ideal. Cards like the Capital One QuicksilverOne offer 1.5% cashback on every purchase, making it sweet for varied transactions rather than just travel.

Additionally, look at lifestyle factors. If you tend to pay off your balance every month, you might prioritize rewards over low-interest rates. But if carrying a balance is more your style, a lower APR card could save you from spiraling debt.

Evaluating Card Benefits

Every card touts benefits, but not all of them are created equally. You need to sift through these offerings rather than just opting for what's popular or heavily advertised.

Consider a few main areas:

Rewards Programs: Understand what rewards are most beneficial to you based on your spending habits. Whether it’s cashback, travel points, or even gift cards, make sure the rewards align with your preferences.
Insurance and Protection: Benefits like purchase protection or extended warranties could be lifesavers, especially for larger purchases. A card that provides these can offer peace of mind.
Introductory Offers: Some cards provide enticing bonuses for new users. These can dramatically boost your rewards but ensure any requirements do not overwhelm your ability to spend responsibly.

Comparing Multiple Offers

When choosing a credit card, comparison is key. Don’t simply settle for the first option that comes your way, even if it seems decent. It’s wise to compare a few different cards side by side.

Here’s what to examine closely:

Interest Rates (APR): Even when you start with a balance, those rates can soon eat into your budget. A minor difference can accumulate quickly.
Fees: Each card will come with various fees, which may include annual charges, foreign transaction fees, or late payment penalties. Make sure these align with your needs and avoid hidden costs as much as possible.
User Experience: Research cardholder reviews. Feedback can give insights into customer service quality and how easily cardholders can navigate benefits.

"Taking the time to compare offers and read reviews can make a world of difference in your overall credit experience - don’t skip this step!"

In the end, the card you choose today can steer your credit future. Balancing your needs with the right features makes for an informed decision.

Strategies for Improving Your Credit Score

Improving a credit score, especially when sitting at 620, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Strategy is crucial. Not only can a better score ease access to credit cards with favorable terms, but it also plays a significant role in future financial endeavors, from loan approvals to securing lower interest rates. Understanding the pathways to improvement can be quite empowering, especially when that score feels like an anchor instead of a springboard.

Making Timely Payments

One of the most straightforward yet effective strategies for boosting your credit score is making timely payments. Life can get hectic. There’s bills, groceries, and all those surprise expenses that always seem to crop up. However, late payments can have a dramatic effect on your credit history. In fact, payment histories typically account for a sizable portion of your credit score.

Setting up reminders through your phone or calendar can keep you from drowning in overdue payments. Even better, many credit card issuers offer automatic payments. Just ensure that the funds are available to avoid bouncing checks, which can deliver a nasty blow to your score.

Reducing Overall Debt

Another significant aspect is managing your overall debt. Picture your credit utilization ratio as a tightrope; keeping that balance is key to wowing lenders. If your total credit limits amount to $10,000 and your balances sit at $3,000, your utilization ratio is 30%. Aiming to keep this ratio under 30% is a good rule of thumb. In fact, the lower, the better.

To chip away at debt, consider strategies like the snowball method, where you focus on paying off smaller debts first for psychological boosts, or the avalanche method that prioritizes the highest interest debts.

"It’s not about where you are today but where you can be tomorrow with the right actions."

Monitoring Your Credit Report

Keeping a watchful eye on your credit report rounds out a solid credit improvement strategy. Mistakes happen—whether an incorrect balance or unusual activity. Monitoring your report can help catch errors that would ding your score unnecessarily. Regularly checking all three major credit reports (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) is advisable; they can sometimes paint differing pictures.

Use reputable services or apps that can offer alerts for significant changes in your credit report. Alternatively, many financial institutions provide free access to your credit score. Staying informed gives you a clearer view of where you stand, allowing you to make informed decisions and adjustments along the way.

Adopting these strategies not only helps elevate your credit score from 620 but sets a foundation for responsible financial management. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the complexities of credit in the future.

Best Credit Cards for a Credit Score

Finding the right credit card when your credit score hovers around 620 can feel like navigating through a maze. Individuals with this score typically find themselves in the realm of fair credit, where options are often limited and terms might not be as favorable. However, understanding the categories of cards available is crucial. Different cards cater to distinct needs, providing opportunities to build or improve credit while offering certain benefits that can make daily transactions easier.

When we talk about the best credit cards for a 620 credit score, it is essential to consider factors such as interest rates, fees, and available rewards. This can make a significant difference in what you ultimately choose. Let's dissect this section into various types of cards available and see what could be beneficial.

Top Secured Cards

Visual representation of credit card rewards programs

Secured credit cards are often the best bet for those with a 620 score. These cards are backed by a cash deposit that you make upfront, which usually serves as your credit limit. In this way, lenders can minimize their risk, making it easier for individuals with lower scores to qualify.

Notable options may include Chase Slate Edge, which tends to come with no annual fee and offers promotional interest rates for a limited period, providing a good entry point. While this card allows you to build your credit, it also enables you to transition to unsecured options later on. Another consideration is the Discover it Secured, which rewards you with cashback on eligible purchases; this can be an appealing offer, incentivizing spending while also promoting effective credit habits.

Benefits of Secured Cards:

Easier approval for individuals with lower scores.
Opportunity to build your credit over time.
Many offer rewards programs.

Recommended Unsecured Cards

Though the landscape is limited for unsecured cards at this credit level, there are options available that can suit your needs. Cards such as Capital One QuicksilverOne may be a good fit. This card doesn’t require a security deposit and still offers a rewards structure, giving you 1.5% cashback on all purchases.

Another option is the Credit One Bank Unsecured Visa. While it comes with an annual fee, it can be beneficial for those who regularly utilize credit. This card provides a chance to earn rewards and has relatively lower fees compared to other cards in a similar market.

Considerations:

Many unsecured cards come with higher interest rates.
Some may carry annual fees, so assess your spending habits.

Additional Considerations for Students

For students with a 620 credit score, specific considerations are paramount. Many student credit cards are designed for those without an extensive credit history. A card like the Journey Student Rewards from Capital One could be perfect. This card offers 1% cashback, and if you consistently pay your balance on time, that jumps to 1.25%.

Another popular choice is the Discover it Student Cash Back. This card comes with rotating cashback categories, engaging students to be financially responsible while also building their credit. Additionally, it has a feature where your FICO score is updated regularly, giving you insights on your credit status as you strive to improve it.

By knowing what options are available, students can make informed choices that not only help in managing their finances but also lay the groundwork for their future financial health.

Common Misconceptions About Credit Cards

When navigating the landscape of credit cards, especially for those with a 620 credit score, it’s easy to fall prey to several misconceptions that can cloud judgment or lead to poor financial decisions. Understanding these misunderstandings is crucial, not only for the immediate benefits of credit cards but also for long-term financial health. By dispelling these myths, readers can better position themselves to make informed choices and ultimately enhance their financial futures.

Misunderstanding Interest Rates

Many believe that all interest rates on credit cards are created equal, but that simply isn't the case. Individuals with a 620 credit score often face higher Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) which can lead to significant costs over time. Many might think that a lower APR is always the best choice, however, it’s important to realize that other factors might impact the overall cost of borrowing.

For example, one may secure a credit card with a higher interest rate but benefits that outweigh these costs, like rewards or cash back. Moreover, a misunderstanding common among users is that a low-interest rate vastly mitigates the risks associated with late payments. It’s vital to recognize that any late payment can result in penalties, causing rates to spike drastically.

"Understanding the real costs of borrowing is key. Don't just look at the APR; consider your spending habits and repayment strategy."

The strategy here is to compare multiple offers, including interest rates, fees, and rewards. Sometimes a higher APR is worth it if the benefits align closely with personal spending habits. Additionally, while promotional low rates can be alluring, they often come with restrictions or end after a certain period, leaving cardholders in a tight spot if they don't read the fine print.

The Fallacy of Annual Fees

Another common misconception is that all annual fees are detrimental. Many individuals automatically steer clear of credit cards that come with associated fees, thinking it is better to opt for no-fee options, but this isn’t necessarily true. In fact, some cards with annual fees may provide better rewards or benefits that make the fee worth every penny.

For instance, a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred charges a modest annual fee but offers significant travel rewards and point multipliers. For credit card users who actively travel or spend on categories covered by these rewards, the annual fee may be justified in the context of savings and earned rewards.

Additionally, avoiding all cards with annual fees can limit choices, particularly for those with a 620 credit score. It’s crucial to assess the benefits against the costs. Focusing on the potential value of rewards and benefits like travel insurance, purchase protection, or cash back can reveal opportunities that may not be obvious at first glance.

Culmination

Navigating the credit card landscape with a 620 credit score can feel like walking a tightrope. This section emphasizes why understanding the various factors when selecting a credit card is crucial for anyone in this credit range.

The first consideration is that a 620 score, while on the fringe, does not mean one is doomed to limited options. Instead, it highlights the necessity for a strategic approach. Individuals must focus on not just finding any card, but the right card. Some cards can help rebuild credit incrementally, while others might impose hefty fees that stagnate financial growth.

Moreover, the broader picture includes recognizing that credit management goes beyond merely securing a card. The decisions made today will ripple into future financial endeavors. It’s more than just immediate rewards; it’s about crafting a solid foundation for tomorrow.

In essence:

Choosing Wisely: Opt for cards that align with individual financial habits.
Long-term Benefits: Focus on cards that help improve scores over time.
Educate Yourself: Gaining knowledge on terms and conditions can save both time and money.

The Path Forward

Moving forward from here requires a combination of options and foresight. As the adage goes, "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail." This rings true in the realm of credit cards for those with a 620 score. First off, it's crucial to start accepting that a score of 620 isn't the end of the journey.

Individuals should become familiar with the various types of credit cards that cater specifically to their situation. For instance, secured cards can be an entry point, often requiring a cash deposit that doubles as a credit limit. Understanding how to utilize these cards effectively can lead to an upward trajectory in creditworthiness: making payments on time, keeping utilization low, and consistently monitoring one’s credit report.

Additionally, setting specific goals can be beneficial. For example:

Reducing credit utilization to below 30%.
Regularly making full payments to avoid interest.

Empowering Your Financial Future

Empowerment comes with knowledge, and this is especially true in the world of finance. Maintaining a keen awareness of credit card rules, benefits, and potential pitfalls instills confidence.

Not only can individuals with a 620 score find cards that cater to their needs, but they can also leverage those cards to foster better credit scores over time. The long-term goal becomes vital; the right card can aid in shifting from limited options to exciting possibilities. With diligence, credit scores can rise, opening doors to unsecured cards with more competitive rewards systems.

In this journey, continuous learning is key. Utilizing resources like articles and forums can expand understanding, making one’s financial pathway clearer.

Ultimately, the trajectory from a 620 credit score to a healthier credit profile is about taking informed steps today. This journey is certainly not a sprint but more of a marathon, requiring patience and dedication.